Former Alberta leader dies in air crash, tributes pour in

WINFIELD, British Columbia (Reuters) - Former Alberta Premier Jim Prentice was one of four people killed in a plane crash in British Columbia, his family confirmed on Friday, as Canadians across the political spectrum paid tribute to his dedication to public service.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police have not yet released names of the four people who died in the crash on Thursday night. Prentice's family said the other victims included the father-in-law of one of their daughters.

"Words cannot begin to express our profound shock and heartbreak," the statement from Prentice's family said.

Canada's Transportation Safety Board said it was investigating the wreckage of a downed Citation jet bound for Calgary, Alberta, when it crashed shortly after takeoff from Kelowna, British Columbia.

Police said they reached the scene shortly after midnight and found catastrophic damage.

Prior to becoming Alberta premier, Prentice held several portfolios in the Conservative government of Stephen Harper, including industry, aboriginal affairs and the environment.

Liberal Prime Minister Justin Trudeau noted Prentice was a highly respected and well-liked member of the House of Commons. Leaders of the federal New Democrats and Green Party both said he would be sorely missed.

"All of us in the Conservative family are ‎devastated today," said federal Conservative leader Rona Ambrose.
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